Contractors paid half up front...

2640 La Cuesta Drive: Sustainable, Solid, Efficient

Met with Erik Lerner at 2640 La Cuesta Dr off Mulholland Dr in the Hollywood Hills, CA. Newly built sustainable, highly efficient 3435sf home looks over green hills from the comfort of its two-story concrete structure. Modern 'lean' lines and total silence inside. Architect Sarah Graham included everything from radiant heating to integrated solar pv array as shading. Retracting shade screen can be lowered to block out the late afternoon CA sun.  Interior spaces can be altered by sliding panels. Full details can be found at http://www.2640lacuesta.com/. For those who wonder where all the sustainable homes are --- take a look.

Magnolia Courts: Energy Star Active Adult Condos in La Verne

May Hsu, a real estate agent at Treeline Realty in Temple City, CA, is part of the team guiding an Energy Star condo complex that opens this spring. Designed with the most up-to-date efficiency and sustainable amenities Magnolia Courts will cater to the 55+ occupants. It will be a welcome addition to the San Gabriel Valley housing market. May Hsu supports sustainable housing through her http://www.greenandgorgeous.com/ website and outreach. More details on Magnolia Court are at www.LaVerne101.com.

Free Mulch Delivery in the City of Long Beach

I just signed up for a free truck load of mulch for my home in Long Beach. Did you know that one of the Build it Green Certification credits is adding mulch to planted areas.  The Office of Sustainability of Long Beach will deliver free mulch to your home.  Simply order it on line here FREE MULCH

There is a link on my website at

http://www.gogreenlending.com/links.php under the Re-Finance tab for the Long Beach Green Guide site for more information.

Energy Upgrade of California in Full Press Media Campaign

Energy Upgrade California is an innovative program for homeowners to improve their home’s energy efficiency, save water, lower utility bills and create a healthier and more comfortable home. Energy Upgrade California connects homeowners with Participating Contractors READ MORE

Looking for a good Landscaping and Pool Contractor?

John Zahn of Sunset Designs & Builders is a very professional contractor specializing in hardscape and pool improvements.

See some of his work on his website.  What I like about him is he responds to calls quickly, shows up on time to appointments and takes the time to help you make decisions.  If you ever want to see a dream back yard, ask John Zahn to give you a personal tour of his home.  You will be amazed!

Energy Upgrade of California Contractor Workshops

The Energy Upgrade of California of Los Angeles County contractor participation meeting was a wealth of information for over 75 licensed contractors, energy auditors and many other stakeholders for the program. Topics covered the simplified application process presented by Rod Nash of BKI, View Tech Financial Services Jennifer Engelmann covering home improvement financing options and Devon Hartman from Every Watt Matters who gave a compelling big picture of the current global energy crisis we face as a nation. If you are in the construction business and want to stay in the front of these programs, utility rebates, you must qualify for the program. One of the biggest supporters is Efficiency First.org. They are trade association supporting and lobbying for performance contractors. Keep an ear out for the upcoming Energy Upgrade of California Contractor Participation workshop in your area.

Build It Green "Green Point" Label Pilot Program in Los Angeles

Department of Energy has funded a pilot program in Los Angeles to test the value of obtaining a "Green Point Rated' Home a rating based on Build It Green's assessment program. Program Director Tenaya Asan presented some details at the LA Real Estate Advisory meeting last week.  The pilot program has been integrated into the Energy Upgrade California - LA home make-over contest. 10 Winners in the EUC-LA home make-over contest will receive Green Point Ratings for their homes.  Rebates between $300-$600 are available for other homeowners who participate in the pilot program. Details at energyupgradeca.org/LACounty